Virtual Policy Dialogue on Enhancing the Role of African Women Scientists in Science Diplomacy

Introduction

On 12 November 2025, the Network of African Science Academies (NASAC), through its Women for Science (WfS) Working Group, convened a virtual policy dialogue titled “African Women Scientists Driving Science Diplomacy in Times of Crisis.” The dialogue aimed to present key findings and recommendations from the forthcoming publication on ‘African Women Scientists Driving Science Diplomacy in Times of Crisis’ led by the NASAC’s WfS Working Group. The session, attended by 58 participants, brought together chapter leads, external experts, academy members, and partners to refine the structure and content of the forthcoming publication and highlight how science diplomacy bridges research, policy, and international cooperation.

In his opening remarks, NASAC President Prof. Norbert Honkonou emphasized the significance of the publication, which highlights the lived experiences, contributions, and aspirations of African women scientists driving research, policy, and international collaboration across the continent and beyond. He further reiterated that the event offered an important opportunity to share insights from the report, engage with the private sector representatives, and identify concrete policy pathways for advancing gender-responsive science systems in Africa.

 Overview of the Report

Dr. Dikabo Mogopodi, Co-Chair of the Women for Science Working Group, presented an overview of the publication, highlighting its focus on bridging science, policy, and international collaboration while centering the role of African women scientists. She emphasized that the report showcases their experiences, contributions, and aspirations, illustrating both the opportunities and challenges they face in research, leadership, and diplomacy across the continent. She commended the Working Group members for their dedication, noting that the publication not only amplifies the voices of African women scientists but also provides a practical roadmap for fostering inclusive and impactful science and policy institutions.

Chapter Highlights

This session was led by the chapter leads, who presented the key highlights of their respective chapters. Chapter One (Introduction) was presented by Prof. Marian Nkansah, who provided an overview of the report’s objectives, scope, and methodology, setting the stage for the subsequent chapters by emphasizing the importance of amplifying the voices and contributions of African women scientists in research, policy, and science diplomacy. Chapter Two, titled Science Diplomacy and Africa’s Grand Challenges: A Gendered Lens, was presented by Dr. Dikabo Mogopodi. She highlighted how integrating a gender perspective into science diplomacy can enhance Africa’s capacity to address its most pressing challenges, from climate change and health to technology and innovation. Dr. Mogopodi emphasized that African women scientists are pivotal in bridging research and policy, and that their active participation and leadership are essential for fostering equitable, inclusive, and effective science diplomacy initiatives across the continent.

Dr. Jackie Kado, NASAC’s Executive Director and Co-Chair of the Working Group, presented Chapter Three, titled African Institutions Driving Inclusive Science Diplomacy. She highlighted the critical role these institutions play in advancing Africa’s scientific priorities on the global stage, despite ongoing challenges such as limited funding and persistent gender inequalities. Chapter Four, titled Voices and Contributions of African Women Scientists, was presented by Prof. Françoise Driver. She highlighted the diverse roles African women scientists play in advancing research, policy, and international collaboration across the continent. She highlighted that the chapter showcases their achievements, lived experiences, and leadership in various scientific fields, while also drawing attention to the systemic barriers they continue to face.

Chapter Five, titled Policy Pathways for Inclusive Science Diplomacy, was delivered by Prof. Josephine Ngaira, who also served as the event’s moderator. She highlighted actionable strategies for integrating gender-responsive approaches into science diplomacy across Africa, emphasizing the importance of institutional commitment, policy reform, and cross-sector collaboration. The chapter outlines concrete pathways for creating enabling environments that empower women scientists, strengthen networks, and ensure equitable participation in decision-making processes at both national and international levels.

Private Sector Feedback

This session provided a valuable opportunity to receive feedback from private sector representatives to further enhance the report. Dr. Lorenza Fluks, Senior Research Specialist at the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC), emphasized the importance of highlighting the role of the social sciences and humanities in science diplomacy, as well as the critical function of science communication in bridging gaps between scientists, policymakers, and the public. On her part, Ms. Félicité Djoukouo, Co-founder and Executive Director of ADEV, recommended collaborating with the African Union to strengthen teacher recognition programs.

During the event, participants actively engaged in the discussion, sharing insights, experiences, and recommendations on advancing gender-responsive science systems in Africa. They contributed perspectives on science diplomacy, science communication, inclusive policies, and the role of both STEM and social sciences in driving research and policy outcomes.

Conclusion

The webinar successfully highlighted the contributions, challenges, and aspirations of African women scientists, while emphasizing the importance of gender-responsive approaches in science and diplomacy. Participants underscored the need for strengthened networks, inclusive policies, and collaborative initiatives to empower women scientists and enhance Africa’s scientific and policy impact. The discussions and recommendations from the event provide a valuable roadmap for advancing equitable, inclusive, and effective science systems that leverage the full potential of women across the continent